Some Christmas desserts are beautiful but require way more patience than I have during an already busy December. These bars are my answer to that. They start with a pouch of sugar cookie mix, so most of the work is already done, but that cheesecake layer in the middle makes them feel like something a little more special.
I love these for Christmas movie nights, cookie trays or those nights when you want to bake something festive without turning the kitchen upside down. The buttery sugar cookie edges get lightly golden, the center stays soft and creamy and the Christmas sprinkles do all the decorating for you.
Serves 12
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Layer
1 pouch (17.5 oz) sugar cookie mix
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Layer
8 oz cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
2 tablespoons red and green Christmas sprinkles
Powdered sugar for serving, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
- Mix the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, egg and vanilla until a soft dough forms.
- Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla and mix just until combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cookie dough.
- Crumble the remaining sugar cookie dough over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle with red and green Christmas sprinkles.
- Bake for 32–38 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set with just a slight jiggle.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Texas Girl Cooks Tip: Chill the bars well before cutting and wipe the knife clean between slices. You’ll get much prettier layers.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~285
Protein: ~3g
Net Carbs: ~34g
Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~0g
